Photonics BW e.V. was founded in July 2000 as a non-profit organisation, with the aim of promoting optical technologies in Baden-Württemberg. In the years 2001 to 2009, funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), Photonics BW evolved to be the competence network for optical technologies in Baden-Württemberg. Today, Photonics BW counts 90 members  from industry, SME, Start-Ups, Research and consulting institutions.

Photonics BW acts as a cross-industry platform for intensive professional exchange on photonics and quantum technologies. The innovation network is open to all companies as well as research and educational institutions with a connection to optical technologies - both as manufacturers and users. Working groups as expert meetings on key topics of optical technologies are a central component. Photonics BW is pleased to support and initiate cooperations and to take on the project management for funded projects.

Photonics BW is commissioned by the Baden-Württemberg Stiftung gGmbH to act as a project management organisation for research programmes in the field of photonics. As a central point of contact, we support the project sponsor and supervise the research projects throughout their entire duration. Another focus of Photonics BW's work is the exchange with international partners of the photonics industry. For continuous further development in the field of optical technologies, Photonics BW regularly organises advanced training seminars on "Optics Design and Simulation", "Illumination Optics", "Optical Characterisation" and "Innovation Management". Photonics BW also offers young people guidance by means of the Photonics BW study guide and the brochure for apprenticeships in optical technologies, as well as with the brochure "Women in Photonics", which presents female specialists and managers as role models.